Hamlet is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse words "hám" meaning "sea" and "léttr" meaning "letter". The name was borne by several historical figures in Denmark, including Hamlet IV, who ruled in the late 10th century.
The most famous bearer of the name is undoubtedly Prince Hamlet, the protagonist of William Shakespeare's tragedy "Hamlet," first performed around 1600. In this play, Hamlet seeks revenge for his father's murder by his uncle Claudius and ultimately fulfills this quest in a dramatic conclusion. The character of Hamlet is renowned for his soliloquies, including the famous "To be or not to be" speech, which reflect his profound introspection and struggle with existential questions.
The name Hamlet has been popular throughout history and continues to be used today, particularly in Scandinavian countries and beyond. It is a strong and distinctive name that carries a rich literary and historical legacy.
"Hamlet has seen a surge in popularity as a baby name over the past century, with peaks in the early 2000s and again in recent years, reaching an all-time high of 11 births in 2019."